Make Windows Explorer Start Where You Want
In Windows XP, the default setting is for Windows Explorer to start with “My Documents” at the head. I am often asked how to get Windows Explorer to start where a user wants instead. Here is how to get Windows Explorer to start at the C: drive.
Right-click on an empty spot on the Desktop. In the context menu, choose “New- Shortcut”. In the space labeled “Type the location of the item”, enter:
explorer.exe /e,/root,c:
The syntax must be exact so watch the commas and spaces. Click “Next”, give the shortcut a name, and click “Finish”. Put the shortcut on the Quick Launch Bar or wherever it is convenient.
This more detailed article gives other Windows Explorer options.